The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr Ola Olukoyede, has urged students across the country to avoid involvement in economic and financial crimes, warning that a criminal conviction can disqualify them from holding public office in Nigeria.
Olukoyede delivered the message during the induction of students of Excellent Kiddies Academy, Bwari, Abuja, into the EFCC Integrity Club. This was disclosed in a statement issued by the Commission on Wednesday.
Represented by Assistant Commander of the EFCC I, Mr Tony Orilade, from the Public Affairs Department, Olukoyede emphasised the importance of building strong character and maintaining sound moral values from an early age.
“To secure a brighter future, you must get it right from the beginning. Surround yourself with good people — friends and acquaintances who will help you grow in wisdom and integrity,” he said.
He noted that involvement in financial crimes carries severe consequences, including imprisonment and permanent exclusion from public service.
“Anyone who engages in financial crimes is on a path that leads to jail. Once convicted, such a person becomes an ex-convict and loses the opportunity to hold any public office in Nigeria. That is a heavy price to pay for associating with the wrong crowd,” Olukoyede stated.
He explained that the EFCC’s Integrity Club initiative forms part of the agency’s Catch Them Young strategy, aimed at grooming a generation of morally upright and responsible Nigerians.
Also speaking at the event, Head of the Enlightenment and Reorientation Unit, Assistant Commander of the EFCC II, Aisha Mohammed, sensitised the students on the role and responsibilities of the Commission. She urged them to uphold honesty and discipline in their daily lives.
“Honesty and integrity are timeless values. They open doors and guide you on the right path in life,” she said.
A quiz competition on the EFCC’s activities was held during the ceremony, with two students, Glory Okinbaliyi and Divine Oyaniyi Bimbola, emerging winners. They were rewarded with Android smartphones.
In his vote of thanks, the Integrity Club Master of the school, Mr Gbenga Jatau, thanked the EFCC for the initiative.
